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Re: CAT SL-1 tube trouble anyone???

HI Jwm,
Thank you. Your cartridge is not really a low output MC. For example, I have a Monster Sigma Genesis 2000 on my second turntable which is rated at .2 mv. This, or less, is generally considered low output. On my ARC SP-11 noise is simply not present, even when music is not, with this cartridge. I would consider yours to be on the low end of medium output. I'm sure it is a better match for the Io or any other pure tube MC amplifier than my Sigma 2000. Your cartridge has more than 6dB more output which is quite a bit. I'll stand by what I said earlier in this thread. Low output MC's are very difficult (impossible?) for pure tube stages to amplify to useful levels and achieve noise free operation.

You know, the noise problem is not addressed by magic or wishful thinking. Preamp design is not immune to physical laws. Great designers have been trying to solve this problem for decades. Consider how low noise performance is achieved with digital astrological photographic sensors and also radiation detectors. Heat related noise is their enemy. Cryogenic technology is used to overcome thermal noise. It’s an extreme but useful solution. But, it’s not available to audiophiles and their tube phono stages. Watch out; it’s probably on its way!

Every conceivable configuration has been tried. The results are predictable and Aesthetix products are no exception to the rules. Noise is a very nasty customer. All of the good solutions are trade offs. Components have improved and circuit board technology has helped but the physical laws governing thermal noise have not been rescinded. You, being a physicist, know this is true.

I’m not a dreamer. While I would like perfection I don't expect it. And we haven't even mentioned microphonics in this discussion.

I want zero audible noise if possible which my SP-11 actually can accomplish with a .2mv cartridge. It's very impressive from that point of view. I'm guessing that you are less picky on the noise issue. Just because the preamp has sufficient gain does not mean it is useful gain. Reviews have noted that noise is present with the Io. I believe it especially with low output MC's.

My other turntable, OTH, uses a Clearaudio Discovery cartridge which is rated at .6 mv. This cartridge would probably be a good match for Aesthetix preamps; even better than yours with respect to noise.

I have been researching Aesthetix phono stages since you first mentioned them. I realized that your set-up, besides being very expensive (and, I'm sure, wonderful), will not physically fit into my rack situation. So, I looked for other options and came up with the Rhea.

Since I use two turntables, both with MC's, each with different characteristics, the programmable multi-cartridge features of the Rhea are very inviting. According to the reviews, the Rhea gives up performance to Io which is to be expected. However, the Rhea has had rave reviews and it will fit into my system situation. Hmmm, my little calculating mind considers......

I am a firm believer in the concept that we get what we pay for. There are few shortcuts to great sound. Thus, I would prefer the Io but it is not possible. That thing is a monster!!! That plus I can’t comfortably afford it. So, understanding that I'm giving up some performance, I went shopping for a used Rhea. I didn't expect to find anything given that there are probably not many out in the field and those that are are not going to be given up often.

Well, I was surprised to find very nice, low hours used Rhea on Audiogon at a price that, if I decide I don't like it, I can resell at no loss. I don't think that is likely but it could happen. Buying good used equipment is one viable shortcut that I have successfully used before. "Good" is the operative word. I wish I could audition the Rhea first but this seems to be a good second option. I'm buying it and have you to thank.

Thanks. And my two cartridges thank you. And my ears. And my parrots. And…… well, you get the idea.

Sparky

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